Kyoungchul (KC) Kong

K.C. Kong is a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kansas. His research focuses on particle physics, dark matter, quantum algorithms, and the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in physics.

Professor K.C. Kong is a theoretical particle physicist whose research focuses on some of the fundamental questions in modern physics, including dark matter, physics beyond the Standard Model, collider physics, quantum algorithms, and the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in physics. His work connects advanced theory, computation, and data-driven methods to better understand the particles and forces that shape the universe.

Before joining the University of Kansas, Professor Kong held research positions at SLAC and Fermilab. At KU, he has been recognized for both research and teaching, including the Scholarly Achievement Award and departmental teaching awards.

Professional Experience

Professor Kong’s academic career includes faculty positions at the University of Kansas and research appointments at SLAC and Fermilab.

Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Kansas, 2020 - Present
Associate Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Kansas, 2015 - 2020
Assistant Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Kansas, 2010 - 2015
Research Associate, Theoretical Physics Department, SLAC, 2009 - 2010
Research Associate, Theoretical Physics Department, Fermilab, 2006 - 2009

Education

Ph.D. in Physics, University of Florida, 2006
M.S. in Physics, Pusan National University, 1999
B.S. in Physics, Pusan National University, 1997

Awards

2021, University Scholarly Achievement Award
2021, Department Undergraduate Teacher of the Year
2019, Department Graduate Teacher of the Year
2011, First Award, NSF EPSCoR
2009, Outstanding Young Researcher Award ( OYRA ), organized by Association of Korean Physicists in America ( AKPA )
2005, Korean Graduate Student Research Award (supported by University of Florida alumni and the New York Times)
2003, Physics Department Teaching Assistant of the Year

Kyoungchul (KC) Kong
Professor, Department of Physics
1251 Wescoe Hall, University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS 66045

Office: 6046A, Malott Hall
Tel: 785-864-6356
Fax: 785-864-5262